SILVERHILL, Alabama — The Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident in which a deputy shot and killed a canine over the weekend in Silverhill.

According to a report issued Monday by BCSO investigations command, a deputy went to a home on Camellia Road in Silverhill in order to serve a civil document.

“Upon his arrival, the deputy observed a gate secured by a clip that had a horse inside the gated area,” according to the release.

Not wishing to enter the enclosed area, the deputy then called the phone number of the subject of the civil document four times before having the Sheriff’s dispatch call the subject. All calls received no answer, according to the release.

The deputy then entered the area and walked approximately 50 yards to the front door of the residence.

“As he knocked on the door, he heard several dogs barking and a large pit bull emerged from the residence through a ‘doggie door’ and charged the deputy who began to retreat,” according to the release.

The dog did not obey verbal commands and continued toward the deputy in an “aggressive manner.” After all attempts to avoid the animal failed, the deputy fired three shots, stopping the animal. The animal died a short time later.

This incident is under further review by the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and the results of the investigation will be released at its conclusion, according to the release.